Alphabet of Blessings

Alphabet of Blessings by Jim and Elizabeth George

The holiday season can be a time for us to thank spouses for the many ways they meet our needs. But, do we show that appreciation more than one season a year? Do we take time to count the many blessings we enjoy because of their care for us, and show them blessings in return?

I’ve saved and used this wonderful list from Partnership magazine for years. I hope that the alphabet of blessings that follows gives you some great ideas for loving your spouse through the holidays and throughout the year:

Amorous words are not outdated. Write a poem, sing a song, buy a roman­tic card. Honor their efforts as a spouse or parent with your words.

Bake their favorite dessert.

Compliment them—on their looks, their dedication to the Lord, their way with your children.

Drive the next time the two of you go somewhere, and let them relax and enjoy the scenery.

Enumerate their fine qualities, using this modified line of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s: “Why do I love thee? Let me count the whys.”

Fish, golf, hunt, swim with him—or read up on their hobby and give them time to enjoy it.

Give them the gift of time.

Hide encouraging scripture verses or personal notes in their coat pocket, wallet, or clothes drawer.

Indulge them with the luxury of breakfast in bed.

Join them for a day at their work.

Kiss your spouse goodbye when they leave for work. It’s easy to get out of the habit in the rush of life.

Learn more about them. Do you know their favorite childhood memory? The best Christmas present they ever received? Their favorite music? The time they were the most afraid?

Meet your spouse for lunch. Use coupons if you’re on a tight budget. Or pack a sack lunch to share.

New photos of the two of you can make the ordi­nary a day to remember. So get out the camera and frame the results.

Old, cherished wedding pictures can help you remember when your love was new.

Prepare a favorite meal.

Quips and cartoons can lighten their day. Cut them out and give them on a day they may need some encouragement.

Read a book together.

Smile when you see your spouse.

Thank them for the routine things you tend to expect them to do.

Uphold your spouse in prayer.

Valentines aren’t just for February. Give a little gift.

Wash and wax the car.

Xercise to keep yourself looking good.

Yes, let’s do it! Make that your answer when your spouse suggests things to do—a walk, watching a game, taking a day trip, whatever.

Zzzzz. Let your spouse take a long in disturbed nap while you entertain the children elsewhere.

RESPOND:

God, let me be a great treasure to my spouse, family, and You. Keep my ways godly, and help me in small and big ways honor my spouse’s service to our family.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

In A Woman's High Calling, Elizabeth George helps readers to eliminate the clutter and chaos of everyday life and focus on the few things God considers truly essential.

REFLECT:

What can I add to the list of blessings that my spouse would appreciate during the busyness of the holiday season?

REMEMBER:

Take time to count the many blessings we enjoy because of our spouse’s care for us, and show them blessings in return.


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Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


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